CN102479062A

CN102479062A - Printing system, information processing apparatus, printing method, and program

Info

Publication number: CN102479062A
Application number: CN2011103748735A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 菊地洋史
Original assignee: Canon Inc
Current assignee: Canon Inc
Priority date: 2010-11-22
Filing date: 2011-11-18
Publication date: 2012-05-30
Anticipated expiration: 2031-11-18
Also published as: US9098220B2; JP2012113384A; JP5677047B2; US20120127519A1; CN102479062B

Abstract

A client PC generates and spools data for print according to a user's printing operation, and generates identification information for identifying itself from its own IP address to present it to the user. When the identification information is input in a multifunction peripheral, the multifunction peripheral converts the identification information into an IP address, and makes a request for transmission of print data to a client PC indicated by the IP address. In response to the request, the client PC generates print data using the spooled data and transmits the print data to the multifunction peripheral. The multifunction peripheral receives and prints the print data.

Description

Print system, signal conditioning package and Method of printing

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of pull-type (pull) print system of not utilizing printing server etc.

Background technology

Traditionally; The print system of a kind of being called as " pull-type printing " has been discussed; In this print system; The user makes be stored in the print request of the print data in the server temporarily through the operation printing equipment, the print data that makes it possible to obtain from server through printing equipment output (referring to No. the 4033857th, Jap.P.).Therefore, the user can from the printing equipment output printing data of expectation, rather than output to specific printing equipment during printing according to application.

The pull-type print system of a kind of serverless backup (referring to TOHKEMY 2006-318245 communique) also has been discussed.In the pull-type print system of serverless backup, substitute print data is stored on the server temporarily, print data is stored on client's personal computer (PC) that indication prints temporarily.Therefore, through client PC is made print request, can be from the printing equipment output printing data of expectation.

In the pull-type print system of serverless backup, need discern client PC according to printing equipment, so that printing equipment and client PC are interconnected, but owing on network, there are a plurality of client PC usually, so this is a difficulty very.

In the system of in TOHKEMY 2006-318245 communique, discussing, when printing according to application, the network of setting up from client PC to all existing printing equipments connects.Then, when the user carried out authentication through printing equipment, client PC cancellation was connected with printing equipment except authentic printing equipment.Yet this method need be set up and being connected of all printing equipments, and therefore has the problem that will apply load to network or printing equipment.In addition,, therefore there is another problem, promptly can't sets up the connection of striding subnet owing to use broadcasting to be used for connection request.

Summary of the invention

The present invention aims to provide a kind of mechanism, and it can connect the printing equipment and the client PC of expectation, in the pull-type print system of serverless backup, carrying out pull-type printing, communicates by letter and need not between unnecessary printing equipment and client PC, to set up.

According to an aspect of the present invention; A kind of print system is provided; In this print system, a plurality of signal conditioning packages and printing equipment are connected to network, and at least one in said a plurality of signal conditioning packages comprises: the automatic spool unit; It is configured to the printing according to the user, generates as the function of the print module of said signal conditioning package and data that automatic spool is used to print; Generation unit, it is configured to generate the identification information that is used for according to the said signal conditioning package of IP Address Recognition of said signal conditioning package; Display unit, it is configured to present the said identification information that is generated by said generation unit to the user; And transmitting element; It is configured in response to the request from said printing equipment; Will be through using the print data that spooking said data generate in said automatic spool unit; Be sent to said printing equipment, and said printing equipment comprises: input block, it is configured to import said identification information; Converting unit, it is configured to convert the said identification information from said input block input into the IP address; Request unit, it is configured to make the request of sending said print data to the said signal conditioning package of being indicated by the IP address of said converting unit conversion; And print unit, it is configured to, and receives and print the described request that said signal conditioning package makes in response to the described request unit and the said print data of sending.

With reference to the detailed description of accompanying drawing to exemplary embodiment, other characteristics of the present invention and aspect will become clear through following.

Description of drawings

Be included in the instructions and constitute instructions a part the accompanying drawing illustration exemplary embodiment of the present invention, characteristic and aspect, and be used for explaining principle of the present invention with explanatory note.

Fig. 1 is that illustration can be used the example system arrangement plan according to the configuration of the print system of signal conditioning package of the present invention and printing equipment.

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of the Hardware configuration of the illustration signal conditioning package that is applicable to client PC shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 3 is the block diagram of example of Hardware configuration of the controller unit of illustration multi-function peripheral shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 4 is the process flow diagram of the example of the processing of client PC when being illustrated in print execution.

Fig. 5 illustration will be in Fig. 4 the timing of step S406 be presented at the example of the dialog box on the monitor.

Fig. 6 is the process flow diagram of the example of the processing of multi-function peripheral when being illustrated in printout.

Fig. 7 illustration in the step S603 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of personal identification number (PIN) the sign indicating number input picture on the operating unit of multi-function peripheral.

Fig. 8 illustration in the step S608 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of the job list display frame on the display unit of operating unit of multi-function peripheral.

Fig. 9 illustration during " from PC tabulation, selecting " button in pressing Fig. 7, to be presented at the example that computing machine on the operating unit of multi-function peripheral is selected picture.

Figure 10 illustration in the step S611 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of the error picture on the display unit of operating unit of multi-function peripheral.

Figure 11 illustration be used for the example of the user interface (UI) that the PIN code of client PC is provided with.

Figure 12 illustration be used for the example of the UI that the PIN code of multi-function peripheral is provided with.

Figure 13 illustration three kinds of network environments of relation in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, between indication client PC and the multi-function peripheral.

Figure 14 illustration Internet protocol (IP) address " 163.24.18.125 " of client PC in this exemplary embodiment, that express with binary number.

Embodiment

Describe various exemplary embodiment of the present invention, characteristic and side below with reference to accompanying drawings in detail and.

Fig. 1 is that illustration can be used the example system arrangement plan according to the configuration of the print system of signal conditioning package of the present invention and printing equipment.As shown in Figure 1; Dispose print system 10000 as follows according to this exemplary embodiment; Make and one or more client PC 100 (for example, to each user) and one or more multi-function peripherals 300 (for example, to each room) are interconnected via Local Area Network 700.

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of the Hardware configuration of the illustration signal conditioning package that is applicable to client PC shown in Figure 1 100.In Fig. 2, CPU (CPU) 201 centralized control are connected to each equipment and the controller of system bus 204.211 storages of ROM (read-only memory) (ROM) 202 or external memory storage are as the required various types of programs of function that are used to realize each PC execution of the basic input/output (BIOS) of the control program of CPU 201 and operating system program (below be called OS) and following description.

Random-access memory (ram) 203 is as the primary memory of CPU 201, workspace etc.CPU 201 will carry out the required program of processing and be loaded into RAM 203 from ROM 202 or external memory storage 211, and realize various operations through carrying out the program that loads.

The control of input controller 205 is from the input such as the indicating equipment of keyboard 209 or mouse (not shown).Video Controller 206 is controlled at the demonstration on the monitor 210.Usually, monitor 210 is the display devices such as LCD or cathode ray tube (CRT).

Memory Controller 207 controls are to the visit of external memory storage 211, and this external memory storage 211 comprises hard disk, solid state drive (SSD) and secure digital (SD) storage card of storage boot, various application program, user file, various data etc.

Communication interface (I/F) controller 208 is used for carrying out and being connected and communicating by letter of external unit via network (for example, LAN700 shown in Figure 1), and in network the executive communication control and treatment.In this exemplary embodiment, can use the communication of transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP).

CPU 201 makes it possible on monitor 210, show through for example carrying out the open letters rasterization process on the display message zone in RAM 202.In addition, CPU 201 makes the user can utilize cursor of mouse (not shown) on the monitor 210 etc. to send instruction.

Being used for of describing below realizes that various types of program of the present invention is recorded in external memory storage 211, and through CPU 201 these programs is loaded on the RAM 202 where necessary and carries out.

Fig. 3 is the block diagram of example of Hardware configuration of the controller unit of illustration multi-function peripheral shown in Figure 1 300.In Fig. 3, controller unit 316 is connected with the printer 312 that is used as image output device with the scanner 314 that is used as image input device.In addition, controller unit 316 is connected with outside LAN etc., to carry out the input and output of view data and facility information.

In controller unit 316, CPU 301 is processors of control total system.So that CPU 301 can work, RAM 302 is also with the video memory that acts on the program storage of logging program and be used for the blotter view data as system working memory for RAM 302.

ROM 303 is stored in the boot and the various control program of system wherein.Hard disk drive (HDD) 304 will be used for various programs, view data of control system etc. and be stored in wherein.Replace HDD, can use SSD etc.

Operating unit interface (operating unit I/F) the 307th, with the interface unit of operating unit (UI) 308, and the view data that will be presented on the operating unit 308 exports operating unit 308 to.In addition, operating unit I/F 307 will be sent to CPU 301 by the user of the native system information (for example, user profile) through operating unit 308 inputs.Operating unit 308 is equipped with the display unit that comprises touch-screen, makes the user to import various instructions through pressing the button that (for example, using finger touches) be presented on the display unit.

Network I/F 305 is connected with network (LAN), to carry out the input and output of data.Modulator-demodular unit (MODEM) 306 is connected with common line, to be used for sending and the input and output of the data of receive faxes (FAX).

Exterior I/F 318 is the I/F unit of accepting outside input, for example USB (USB), IEEE (IEEE) 1394, printer port and RS-232C.In this exemplary embodiment, the card reader 319 that is used to read the required integrated circuit of authentication (IC) card is connected to exterior I/F unit 318.

CPU 301 reading card devices 319 read information via exterior I/F 318 from IC-card and control, and can obtain the information that reads from IC-card.The said equipment (301 to 307 and 318) is arranged on the system bus 309.

Image bus I/F 320 is bus bridges of the image bus 315 of connected system bus 309 and high-speed transfer view data, and translation data structure.

Image bus 315 can comprise peripheral component interconnect (pci) bus or IEEE 1394.Be the equipment that is arranged on the image bus 315 below.

Raster image processor (RIP) 310 will turn to bitmap images such as the vector data grating of PDL (PDL) code.Printer I/F 311 is connected printer 312 with controller unit 316, and carries out the synchronous/asynchronous conversion of view data.Scanner I/F 313 is connected scanner 314 with controller unit 316, and carries out the synchronous/asynchronous conversion of view data.

The view data of 317 pairs of inputs of graphics processing unit is proofreaied and correct, is handled and edits, and prints the correction and the conversion of resolution of machine to the view data of printout.In addition; Graphics processing unit 317 carries out the rotation of view data; And multivalue image data comprised the (JPEG of JPEG; Joint Photographic Experts Group) compression/decompression processes comprises associating bifurcation image sets (JBIG, Joint Bi-levecl Image Group), improvement modified R EAD (MMR to binary image data; Modified modified READ) and the compression/decompression processes of revising Huffman (MH, modified Huffman).

Scanner 314 shines as the image on the paper of original copy, and through charge-coupled device (CCD) line sensor scan image, and scanner 314 is an electric signal with image transitions, as the raster image data.When device users is placed on the original copy sheet material on the pallet of ADF (not shown), and when starting the instruction of reading through operating unit 308 inputs, CPU 301 beacon scanning devices 314 are through sent the original copy sheet material to read original image from ADF one by one.

Printer 312 is to be the unit of the image on the sheet material with the raster image data-switching, and its method comprises the electrophotographic method or the ink ejecting method of usability optical element or photo-sensitive cell band, but can use any means.Begin to start printing through instruction from CPU 301.Printer 312 comprises a plurality of paper feeding sections (paper feeding stage), makes it possible to select different paper sizes or different paper orientations, and comprises carton corresponding with it.

Operating unit 308 comprises LCD (LCD) display unit that is attached with touch screen.The operation screen of operating unit 308 display systems, and when pressing display key is sent to CPU 301 with the positional information of the key that is pressed via operating unit I/F 307.Operating unit 308 also comprises various operating keys, for example initiating key, stop key, ID key and reset button.

The initiating key of operating unit 308 for example uses when the read operation of beginning original image.At the middle body of initiating key, double-colored (green and red) light emitting diode (LED) is arranged, whether it is ready to use through color indication initiating key.The stop key of operating operation unit 308 is to stop ongoing operation.The ID key of operating unit 308 uses when input user's ID.Reset button uses during from being provided with of operating unit in initialization.

Card reader 319 reads the information that is stored in the IC-card (for example, the Felica of Sony (registered trademark)) through the control of CPU 301, and via exterior I/F 318 information that reads is notified to CPU 301.

Through above-mentioned configuration, multi-function peripheral 300 can be with the image data transmission that reads from scanner 314 to LAN 700, and can print the print data that receives from LAN 700 through printer 312.

In addition, the view data that multi-function peripheral 300 can carry out reading from scanner 314 through modulator-demodular unit 306 is to the FAX transmission of common line, and the view data that can receive from common line through FAX through printer 312 outputs.

To the flow process according to the processing in the client PC 100 in the pull-type print system of the serverless backup of this exemplary embodiment be described with reference to Fig. 4 below.

In using the client PC 100 of native system, be installed in advance in the external memory storage 211 according to the print module needs of this exemplary embodiment.Print module comprises dedicated printer driver and the service that is used for the pull-type printing of serverless backup, and cooperation ground is operated each other.The user can use this print system through signing in to client PC 100, selecting above-mentioned dedicated printer driver and indication to print from any application that operates on the client PC.

Fig. 4 is the process flow diagram that is illustrated in the example of the processing of client PC 100 during the print execution.Processing in the process flow diagram through 201 executive loggings of the CPU in the client PC 100 externally the computer-readable program (according to the print module of this exemplary embodiment) in the storer 211 realize.The processing of carrying out the client PC 100 that realizes according to the print module of this exemplary embodiment through CPU 201 will be described below.

At first, the printing of using according to the user prints processing, and sends print command to print module.

In step S401, print module is from using receiving printing orders.In step S402, print module generates the data (print data) that will print via graphics engine based on the data that receive.Here the print data that generates has the form (for example, enhanced metafile (EMF) form) that is independent of printing equipment, and, can freely change setting of printing before handling actual printing.

Next, in step S403, in print data storage (automatic spool (spool)) predetermined storage location (spooling area in the external memory storage 211) in client PC 100 that print module will generate in step S402.

In step S404, print module will spooking print data be added in the job list by the print module management in step S403.The job list comprises by the document title of the spooking print data item of print module and such as number of pages and the information of date printed and time.At this moment, print module only carries out automatic spool to print data, and does not carry out the transmission to printing equipment (multi-function peripheral 300).

Next, in step S405, print module is according to the IP address computation PIN code of the PC 100 that itself works.Then, in step S406, print module is presented at the PIN code that calculates on the monitor 210.Fig. 5 illustration the timing of the step S406 in Fig. 4 be presented at the example of the dialog box on the monitor 210.

In Fig. 5, the timing of the step S406 of dialog box 501 in Fig. 4 is presented on the monitor 210.In dialog box 501, show PIN code 503 and indication and sent print job and prompting (warning) user and before accomplishing actual print processing, do not interrupt being connected between PC and the network perhaps cutting off the message 502 of the power supply of PC.In other words, message 502 has been sent following warning to the user: client PC should maintain in its state that can communicate with each printer (multi-function peripheral 300), accomplishes (printing thereby accomplish) up to the printing of spooking print data.

In the example of Fig. 5, show that " 4733 " are as PIN code.PIN code is the identification information (the IP address of client PC itself) that is used to discern client PC itself.The computing method of PIN code will be described with reference to Figure 11 to Figure 14 below.

When pressing OK button 504, close box 501.At this moment, do not determine to select a plurality of multi-function peripherals 300 from network which multi-function peripheral to print as yet.Then, the user directly goes to the multi-function peripheral 300 that user expectation prints, and carries out printing through the UI of operating multifunction peripherals 300.

To the flow process according to the processing in the multi-function peripheral in the pull-type print system of the serverless backup of this exemplary embodiment 300 be described with reference to Fig. 6 below.Fig. 6 is the process flow diagram that is illustrated in the example of the processing of multi-function peripheral 300 during the printout, this handle corresponding to the user multi-function peripheral 300 fronts are actual carry out printing before, the processing of multi-function peripheral 300.The processing of process flow diagram realizes through the computer-readable program of CPU 301 executive loggings in ROM303 in the multi-function peripheral 300.

At first, the user signs in to the operation of multi-function peripheral 300 through IC-card being remained on card reader 319 tops, perhaps the ID key of operating unit 308 being operated to import ID etc.In step S601, when receiving operation, the CPU301 of multi-function peripheral 300 carries out user's login process.When successfully accepting login, CPU 301 is presented at the user name of menu screen and login user on the UI of operating unit 308.

In step S602, from menu screen, select " pull-type printing " through user operation UI.In step S603, the picture that the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 imports PIN code with as shown in Figure 7 being used to is presented at the display unit of operating unit 308.Thereby the processing of the pull-type printing of beginning serverless backup.

Fig. 7 illustration in the step S603 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of the PIN code input picture on the operating unit 308 of multi-function peripheral 300.

When the user was input to PIN code the zone 702 of PIN code input picture 701 and touches OK button 704 through operation UI, in step S604, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 calculated the IP address based on the value of the PIN code of input.To method that calculate the IP address according to PIN code be described with reference to Figure 11 to Figure 14 below.

Next, in step S605, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is to the client PC 100 request jobs tabulation of the IP address of in step S604, calculating.The print module that receives the client PC 100 of this request sends the login username of client PC 100 and by the job list of print module management to multi-function peripheral 300, as to this request responding.If print data is not registered in (if the job list is for empty) in the job list by the print module management, then the print module of client PC 100 does not carry out above-mentioned response.

Then, in step S606, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 determines whether to receive response from the client PC 100 with above-mentioned IP address.If confirm to have received response (step S606: be) from the client PC 100 with above-mentioned IP address, then the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 makes to handle and proceeds to step S607.

In step S607, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 confirm to be included in from the user name in the response of above-mentioned client PC 100 whether with step S601 in the user name of login user identical.

Then, if confirm to be included in the user name identical (step S607: be) from the login user among the user name in the response of above-mentioned client PC 100 and the step S601, then the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 makes to handle and proceeds to step S608.

In step S608, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 obtains the job list that is included in from the response of above-mentioned client PC 100, and the job list display frame 801 as shown in Figure 8 is presented on the display unit of operating unit 308.

Fig. 8 illustration in the step S608 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of the job list display frame on the display unit of operating unit 308 of multi-function peripheral 300.The job list that the job list display frame 801 shows by the management of the print module in the client PC 100, and display document title 802, number of pages 803 and date and time (date printed and time) 804.In the job list display frame 801, the user can select operation and press (touching) " to begin to print " button 807.In addition, the user can press (touching) " details " button 805 showing the details of selected operation, and presses " deletion " button 806 to delete selected operation.

When the user selects operation through the UI operation and press " beginning to print " button 807 (indication is printed), in step S609, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 will comprise that the print command of the document title of selected operation is sent to above-mentioned client PC 100.

The print module that receives the client PC 100 of print command obtains and is included in the corresponding print data of document title the print command from the spooling area of client PC 100, and controls print data is sent to multi-function peripheral 300.

In further detail to when print data is sent out, the control operation of the print module of client PC 100 replenishes description.Print module extracts and follows manufacturer's information and the type information that sends together from the print command of multi-function peripheral 300, and whether definite corresponding printer driver is installed in the client PC.

If printed driver has been installed; Then print module takes out the print data of EMF form from spooling area, and makes printed driver convert print data into PDL (PDL) print data that is used for multi-function peripheral 300 (print data being converted into the print data that is used for the printing equipment that print command is issued to).Then, the print data after printed driver will be changed is sent to multi-function peripheral 300.

On the other hand, will be described below situation: the print module of client PC 100 confirms whether be installed in the client PC with multi-function peripheral 300 corresponding printed drivers.In this case, print module search and manufacturer's information and the corresponding printed driver of type information in the storage area of client PC or the equipment on the network.If find this printed driver, then print module obtains this printed driver and controls the execution of installation treatment.

Then, print module takes out the print data of EMF form from spooling area, and makes the printed driver of installation be converted into the PDL print data to multi-function peripheral 300.Print data after printed driver will be changed is sent to multi-function peripheral 300.

In step S610, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 obtains the print data of sending from above-mentioned client PC 100, carries out actual print processing through 312 pairs of print datas of printer, and finishes print processing.

The job list display frame 801 can be configured to and can (for example print setting to each operation; Colour/monochrome setting, two-sided setting, close 1 layout setting, the setting of ordering nail or bookbinding, row's paper setting and paper feed setting such as 2), and can during the print processing among the step S610, print according to above-mentioned setting of printing.

If (step S606: not), then the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 confirms as mistake, and makes processing proceed to step S611 to confirm not receive response from the client PC 100 with above-mentioned IP address.In addition, if confirm to be included in from the user name of the login user among the user name in the response of above-mentioned client PC 100 and the step S601 different, then the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 confirms as mistake, and makes to handle and proceed to step S611.

In step S611, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is presented at error picture shown in figure 10 1001 on the display unit of operating unit 308, and finishes print processing.

Picture 701 among Fig. 7 is the prompting user imports PIN code in aforesaid multi-function peripheral 300 pictures, and still, the user need remember that PIN code is with the input PIN code.Yet the user possibly forget PIN code sometimes.For this reason, to the user who has forgotten PIN code, the picture 701 among Fig. 7 comprises " from the PC tabulation, selecting " button 703.

When pressing " from the PC tabulation, selecting " button 703, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is based on Figure 11 that describes after a while and PIN code setting shown in Figure 12, all possible IP address on the computational grid.Then, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 sends the job list request to all client PC 100 with the IP address that calculates.

Have only one if return the client PC of answering and having a same username in response to the job list request, then as stated, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 shows the job list display frame 801 as shown in Figure 8 based on the job list that obtains.

On the other hand; If exist a plurality of returning in response to the job list request to answer and have the client PC of same username, the computing machine selection picture 901 that then CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 will be as shown in Figure 9 is presented on the display unit of operating unit 308.

Fig. 9 illustration under the situation of " from PC tabulation, selecting " button 703 in pressing Fig. 7, to be presented at the example that computing machine on the operating unit 308 of multi-function peripheral 300 is selected picture.Select on the picture 901 at computing machine, in row 902, listed the computer name of all client PC 100 of having made response, in row 903, listed the quantity that is included in the operation in each the job list.

Select on the picture 901 at computing machine, when pressing back 904, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is the PIN code input picture among Fig. 7 with display change.When the user when computing machine is selected to select on the picture 901 to comprise the computing machine of the operation that the user hopes to print and is pressed OK button 905; The CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 shows the job list display frame 801 as shown in Figure 8 based on the job list that obtains from the PC that selects picture 901 to select at computing machine.

When not returning when response from any client PC, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 confirms as mistake, and makes to handle and proceed to step S611.In step S611, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is presented at error picture shown in figure 10 1001 on the display unit of operating unit 308, and finishes print processing.

Like 10 illustrations in the step S611 of Fig. 6, be presented at the example of the error picture on the display unit of operating unit 308 of multi-function peripheral 300.In error picture 1001, when pressing (touching) OK button 1002, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 closes error picture 1001, and is initial picture with display change.

Overall procedure according to print system of the present invention has been described.Through using PIN code, printing equipment and client PC can be interconnected, and need not to print unnecessary communicating by letter between device and the client PC.Owing to connect, therefore can set up the connection of striding subnet through direct assigned ip address.

In the job list display frame 801 of Fig. 8, when selecting operation and pressing (indication) " details " button 805, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 is presented at the details of selected operation on the display unit of operating unit 308.The details of supposing operation are received with the job list; Yet; Can be in the timing of pressing " details " button 805, from obtaining as the client PC 100 in the source that obtains of the job list Fig. 8 and the corresponding details of document title of demonstration and selected operation.

In the job list display frame 801 in Fig. 8; When selecting operation and pressing (indication) " deletion " button 806, the CPU 301 of multi-function peripheral 300 will comprise that the delete instruction of the document title of selected operation is sent to the client PC 100 as the source that obtains of the job list among Fig. 8.

The corresponding print data of document title in the delete instruction is deleted and be included in to the print module of client PC 100 that receives delete instruction from the job list of the spooling area of client PC 100 and print module management.

Next, will required PIN code setting and the network environment of calculating PIN code be described with reference to Figure 11 to Figure 13.Figure 11 illustration be presented at the example of the UI that PIN code on the monitor 210 of client PC 100, in the client PC 100 is provided with through print module.Figure 12 illustration be presented at the example of the UI that PIN code on the display unit of operating unit 308, in the multi-function peripheral 300 is provided with by CPU 301.

In order to reduce the figure place of PIN code, the system manager need carry out the PIN code setting in advance through Figure 11 and UI shown in Figure 12.The content that will in this processing, be provided with is the network co-relation between client PC 100 and the multi-function peripheral 300 in targeted environment (that is, the relation between two IP addresses hereinafter is called network environment).

Be provided with in the dialog box 1101 at PIN code shown in Figure 11, can specify three kinds of network environments, be i.e. " in consolidated network " 1102, " in same subnet " 1103 and " appointment identical bits " 1104.

Likewise, be provided with in the dialog box 1201, can specify three kinds of network environments, be i.e. " in consolidated network " 1202, " in same subnet " 1203 and " appointment identical bits " 1204 at PIN code shown in Figure 12.

The difference of the network environment in above-mentioned three kinds of appointments will be described with reference to Figure 13 below.Figure 13 illustration three kinds of network environments of relation in this exemplary embodiment, between expression client PC 100 and the multi-function peripheral 300.In this case, the IP address of supposing all client PC of three types 100 is " 163.24.18.125 ".

First network environment 1301 is that all multi-function peripherals 300 all are present in the environment in the subnet identical with client PC 100.

In environment shown in Figure 13, because subnet mask is " 255.255.255.192 ", so all multi-function peripherals 300 all are present between " 163.24.18.64 " and " 163.24.18.127 ".

In this network environment, the system manager is provided with selection " in same subnet " 1103 in the dialog box 1101 at the PIN code of client PC shown in Figure 11 100.In addition, the system manager with " 255.255.255.192 " as in the subnet mask input area 1105.Can from being provided with of client PC 100, obtain subnet mask through print module.

Likewise, be provided with in the picture 1201 at the PIN code shown in Figure 12 of multi-function peripheral 300, the system manager selects " in same subnet " 1203 also via subnet mask input UI (not shown) input " 255.255.255.192 ".Subnet mask input UI is arranged on when pressing details button 1205 on the picture displayed.Likewise, CPU 301 that can be through multi-function peripheral 300 obtains subnet mask from being provided with of multi-function peripheral 300.

Second network environment 1302 is that all multi-function peripherals 300 all are present in the environment in the network identical with client PC 100.Identical network means, and is identical by the network address of the definite address class in high-order (high-order) position of IP address.

In environment shown in Figure 13, the IP address of client PC 100 is " 163.24.18.125 ", and because 2 of high-orders are " 10 ", therefore finds the address class of its type of belonging to B.Because the default network mask of type B is " 255.255.0.0 ", so all multi-function peripherals 300 all are present between " 163.24.0.0 " and " 163.24.255.255 ".

In this network environment, the system manager is provided with selection " in consolidated network " 1102 in the dialog box 1101 at the PIN code of client PC shown in Figure 11 100.Likewise, be provided with in the picture 1201 at the PIN code of multi-function peripheral shown in Figure 12 300, the system manager selects " in consolidated network " 1202.

The 3rd network environment 1303 be in the IP address of all multi-function peripherals 300 and client PC, the identical environment in position of the some in the high-order position only.Figure 13 illustration 12 identical environment of high-order of IP address, and because high 12 of IP address are " 101000110001 ", so all multi-function peripherals 300 all are present between " 163.16.0.0 " and " 163.31.255.255 ".

In this network environment, the system manager is provided with selection " appointment identical bits " 1104 in the dialog box 1101 at the PIN code of client PC shown in Figure 11 100, and " 12 " input is used in reference to the

UI

1106 or 1107 of location number.Likewise, be provided with in the picture 1201 at the PIN code of multi-function peripheral shown in Figure 12 300, the system manager selects " appointment identical bits " 1204, and specifies UI (not shown) input " 12 " via figure place.Figure place specifies UI to be arranged on when pressing details button 1205 on the picture displayed.Similar with the hurdle 1108 among Figure 11, can the setting of " PIN code is restricted to 4 " be designed on same frame, carry out.

Next, will the computing method of the PIN code in the client PC 100 and the IP address calculation method in the multi-function peripheral 300 be described to above-mentioned three kinds of network environments.

In this exemplary embodiment, PIN code is the code of expressing the IP address of client PC 100 through a decimal number.As stated, the user need remember PIN code with in the PIN code input picture 702 that is entered into multi-function peripheral 300, so expects less figure place.In this exemplary embodiment, can reduce figure place through using above-mentioned PIN code setting, and its concrete example will be in Figure 14 illustration.

Figure 14 illustration the IP address " 163.24.18.125 " of client PC in this exemplary embodiment, that express with binary number.When the IP address is merely converted into decimal number, obtain " 2736263805 ", shown in item 1405, figure place is a lot, so the user is difficult to it is remembered.

In above-mentioned first network environment 1301, select " in same subnet " 1103 owing to be provided with in the dialog box 1101 at PIN code, therefore can omit 26 of the high-orders that will calculate according to subnet mask always.Therefore, can convert decimal number into, obtain PIN code " 61 " (in item 1402) through position from the 27th to the 32nd of high-order with the above-mentioned IP address.In other words, client PC 100 is calculated PIN code through only will partly converting decimal number into through the host address that eliminating subnet address part from the IP address of himself obtains.

In above-mentioned second network environment 1302, select " in consolidated network " 1102 owing to be provided with in the dialog box 1101 at PIN code, therefore can omit 16 of the high-orders that calculate according to default network mask (standard subnet mask) always.Therefore, can obtain PIN code " 4733 " (in item 1401) through converting decimal number into from the position of the 17th to the 32nd of high-order.In other words, client PC 100 is calculated PIN code through only converting decimal number at eliminating default network mask part (standard subnet mask part) remainder afterwards from the IP address of himself.

In above-mentioned the 3rd network environment 1303,, therefore can omit 12 of high-orders owing to " the appointment identical bits " 1104 of selecting " 12 " position in the dialog box 1101 is set at PIN code always.Therefore, can obtain PIN code " 529021 " (in item 1403) through converting decimal number into from the position of the 13rd to the 24th of high-order.In other words, client PC 100 is calculated PIN code through converting decimal number at the remainder after the bit position of from the IP address of himself, getting rid of appointment.

Identical bits is few more, and the figure place of the PIN code that the user need remember is many more.Therefore, be provided with in the dialog box 1101 at PIN code shown in Figure 11 and be provided with " PIN code is restricted to 4 " check box 1108.

If check box 1108 is set to the position of " ON (opening) " and appointment less than " 19 " position, then is used for only hanging down 13 and converts decimal numeral processing into.This is because under numerical digit is 13 or littler situation, when numerical digit is converted into decimal number, will guarantee to be converted into 4 or littler numerical value.

Because in the example of the environment 1303 in Figure 13; The identical bits of appointment is less than position, " 19 " position " 12 "; Therefore, 13 (promptly from the 20th to the 32nd of high-order) through will be lower convert decimal number into and can obtain PIN code " 4733 " (item 1404).In other words, in this case, client PC through with in himself IP address lower 13 convert decimal number into, calculate PIN code.

Next, will be described in the IP address of the client PC 100 in the multi-function peripheral 300 to above-mentioned three kinds of network environments.

In above-mentioned first network environment 1301 select " in same subnet " 1203 owing to be provided with in the picture 1201 at PIN code, therefore, according to the subnet mask of their its own IP address calculate identical up to 26 of high-orders.

Therefore, the value of input is converted into binary number in PIN code input picture 701, and these binary numbers are applied to be identified as relative clients PC 100 the IP address, from the 27th to the 32nd remaining bit.

In the example in Figure 13 and Figure 14, multi-function peripheral 300 can be " 163.24.18.125 " with the IP Address Recognition of client PC 100 according to the IP address " 163.24.18.99 " of himself and the PIN code " 61 " of input.More particularly; Multi-function peripheral 300 is through according to IP address " 163.24.18.99 " 26 of the high-orders of identification of himself and according to low 16 of PIN code " 61 " identification of input, is " 163.24.18.125 " with the IP Address Recognition of client PC 100.

In other words, multi-function peripheral 300 through input value being added to the host address part, comes the IP address of computing client PC 100 to the subnet address part of the IP address of himself.

In above-mentioned second network environment in 1302, be provided with at PIN code and select " in consolidated network " 1202 in the picture 1201, and, according to the default network mask of their its own IP address calculate identical up to 16 of high-orders.Therefore, the value of input is converted into binary number in PIN code input picture 701, and these binary numbers are applied to be identified as relative clients PC 10O the IP address, from the 17th to the 32nd remaining bit.

In the example in Figure 13 and Figure 14, multi-function peripheral 300 can be " 163.24.18.125 " with the IP Address Recognition of client PC 100 according to the IP address " 163.24.48.103 " of himself and the PIN code " 4733 " of input.

In other words, multi-function peripheral 300 through adding input value to remainder, comes the IP address of computing client PC 100 to the default network address portion of the IP address of himself.

In above-mentioned the 3rd network environment, in 1303, " the appointment identical bits " 1204 of selecting " 12 " position in the picture 1201 is set at PIN code, and, their its own IP address identical up to 12 of high-orders.Therefore, the value of input is converted into binary number in PIN code input picture 701, and these binary numbers are applied to be identified as relative clients PC 100 the IP address, from the 13rd to the 32nd remaining bit.

In the example in Figure 13 and Figure 14, multi-function peripheral 300 can be " 163.24.18.125 " with the IP Address Recognition of client PC 100 according to the IP address " 163.20.48.103 " of himself and the PIN code " 529021 " of input.

In other words, multi-function peripheral 300 through adding input value to remainder, comes the IP address of computing client PC 100 to the specific bit part of the IP address of himself.Be provided with in the detailed picture of picture 1201 at PIN code,, then will carry out different processing if made the setting of " PIN code is restricted to 4 ".As stated, multi-function peripheral 300 is to up to 12 distribution of high-order position identical with the IP address of himself, and converts the position that binary number obtains to low 13 distribution into through the PIN code with input.In other words, uncertain from the remaining bit of the 13rd to the 19th of high-order, therefore can't discern the IP address of client PC 100.In this case, the job list request among the step S605 of Fig. 6 is made in all possible IP address.If uncertain figure place is 7, then 128 IP addresses will become object altogether.

In the example in Figure 13 and Figure 14, following 128 IP addresses of calculating according to the PIN code " 4733 " of multi-function peripheral 300 its own IP address " 163.20.48.103 " and input will become object.That is, " 163.16.18.125 ", " 163.16.50.125 ", " 163.16.82.125 " ... with " 163.31.242.125 ".

In this exemplary embodiment, " PIN code is restricted to 4 " is described to example, yet it is not limited to 4.Can realize this exemplary embodiment through 5 or 6.

As stated, client PC 100 can generate PIN code according to a part of information of IP address, and reduces the figure place of PIN code based on the relation on client PC that the UI appointment is set through PIN code and the network between the multi-function peripheral.Therefore, can reduce the possibility that the user forgets PIN code.

In this exemplary embodiment, described following example: if the user has forgotten that the figure place of PIN code or PIN code is limited, then multi-function peripheral 300 sends the job list request to a plurality of IP address.

In this case, if request is made in a plurality of IP address at every turn, then system loading becomes big.Usually, identical user uses the possibility of the PC with identical ip addresses very high.Therefore, multi-function peripheral 300 can be stored the IP address (buffer information that each is printed) that each user often uses, and can realize preferential processing to these IP Address requests the job lists.

More particularly, IP Address requests the job list that multi-function peripheral 300 at first only often uses to the user, then, only under the situation that does not have response, just to remaining a plurality of IP Address requests the job lists.Therefore, can reduce the load of system.

More than illustrate and describe exemplary embodiment of the present invention.In this exemplary embodiment, multi-function peripheral is as printing equipment.Yet, if use the single function printer comprise operating unit, function that can this exemplary embodiment of simple realization.In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, the system manager need carry out the PIN code setting to client PC 100 and multi-function peripheral 300.Yet, can use the instrument that jointly client PC 100 and multi-function peripheral 300 is provided with.

In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, provided the example of use " in consolidated network ", " in same subnet " and " appointment identical bits " three items, to reduce the figure place of PIN code.Yet in order to reduce the figure place of PIN code, this exemplary embodiment can also be used to represent that other designation methods of the relation on the network realize through use.

And in this exemplary embodiment, internet protocol-based edition 4 (IPv4) is described, yet this exemplary embodiment can realize through internet usage protocol edition 6 (IPv6) equally.

According to this exemplary embodiment; In the pull-type print system of serverless backup; Can carry out pull-type printing through the printing equipment and the signal conditioning package of direct connection expectation, and need not to set up unnecessary being connected between printing equipment (multi-function peripheral 300) and the signal conditioning package (client PC 100).In addition, can also realize striding the connection of subnet.

The structure and the content of above-mentioned various data are not limited thereto.According to using and purpose, data can comprise various configurations and content.

More than described exemplary embodiment of the present invention, yet exemplary embodiment of the present invention can realize through for example system, device, method, program or storage medium.More particularly, the present invention is applicable to the system that comprises a plurality of equipment, perhaps is applicable to the device that comprises individual equipment.

In addition, the configuration of above-mentioned each exemplary embodiment combination includes in the present invention.

The present invention can also realize through carrying out following processing.More particularly, be provided for realizing the software (program) of the function of above-mentioned each exemplary embodiment via network or various storage medium to system or device, and the computing machine of system or device (or CPU or microprocessing unit (MPU)) reads and carries out this program.

Though invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiment, should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to disclosed exemplary embodiment.Should give the wideest explanation to the scope of accompanying claims, so that it contains all these modified examples and equivalent configurations and function.

Claims

1. print system, in this print system, a plurality of signal conditioning packages and printing equipment are connected to network,

In said a plurality of signal conditioning package at least one comprises:

The automatic spool unit, it is configured to the printing according to the user, generates as the function of the print module of said signal conditioning package and data that automatic spool is used to print;

Generation unit, it is configured to generate the identification information that is used for according to the said signal conditioning package of IP Address Recognition of said signal conditioning package;

Display unit, it is configured to present the said identification information that is generated by said generation unit to the user; And

Transmitting element, it is configured in response to the request from said printing equipment, will be sent to said printing equipment through using the print data that spooking said data generate in said automatic spool unit, and

Said printing equipment comprises:

Input block, it is configured to import said identification information;

Converting unit, it is configured to convert the said identification information from said input block input into the IP address;

Request unit, it is configured to make the request of sending said print data to the said signal conditioning package of being indicated by the IP address of said converting unit conversion; And

Print unit, it is configured to, and receives and print the described request that said signal conditioning package makes in response to the described request unit and the said print data of sending.

2. print system according to claim 1, wherein, the data of said automatic spool unit automatic spool EMF form, as the data that are used to print, and

Wherein, The print data of sending by said transmitting element by generate with the corresponding printed driver of said printing equipment, to the print data of said printing equipment; On said printing equipment, said print module carries out installation and control in response to the request from said printing equipment.

3. signal conditioning package, it can communicate via network and printing equipment, and said signal conditioning package comprises:

Transmitting element, it is configured in response to the request from said printing equipment, will be sent to said printing equipment through using the print data that spooking said data generate in said automatic spool unit.

4. signal conditioning package according to claim 3, wherein, said automatic spool unit automatic spool does not rely on the data of form of the model of said printing equipment, as the data that are used to print, and

5. signal conditioning package according to claim 3; This signal conditioning package also comprises: the warning unit; It is configured to warning users said signal conditioning package is maintained in the state that can communicate with said printing equipment, so that accomplish the printing of spooking said data in said automatic spool unit.

6. signal conditioning package according to claim 3; Wherein, Said transmitting element is in response to the request from said printing equipment; To in said automatic spool unit, the tabulation of spooking said data be sent to said printing equipment, and will be sent to said printing equipment according to the print data that the data of selecting in the said tabulation from said printing equipment generate.

7. signal conditioning package according to claim 3, wherein, said generation unit generates said identification information according to the partial information of said IP address.

8. signal conditioning package according to claim 7, this signal conditioning package also comprises:

The unit is set, and it is configured to be provided with said signal conditioning package and the relation of said printing equipment on said network,

Wherein, said generation unit is based on being provided with the said relation that the unit is provided with by said, generates said identification information according to the partial information of said IP address.

9. signal conditioning package according to claim 7 wherein, through from said IP address, getting rid of its subnet address part, obtains the said partial information of said IP address.

10. signal conditioning package according to claim 7 wherein, through the standard subnet mask part of the address class under the said IP of the eliminating address from said IP address, obtains the said partial information of said IP address.

11. signal conditioning package according to claim 7 wherein, through from said IP address, getting rid of the high-order position of its specific quantity, obtains the said partial information of said IP address.

12. the Method of printing in the print system, in this print system, a plurality of signal conditioning packages and printing equipment are connected to network, and said Method of printing comprises:

Make at least one processing below the execution in said a plurality of signal conditioning package:

According to user's printing, generate as the function of the print module of said signal conditioning package and data that automatic spool is used to print;

Generation is used for the identification information according to the said signal conditioning package of IP Address Recognition of said signal conditioning package;

Present the identification information that is generated to the user; And

In response to request from said printing equipment, will be sent to said printing equipment through using the print data of the spooking data generation of institute, and

Make said printing equipment carry out following the processing:

Import said identification information;

Convert the said identification information of input into the IP address;

To making the request of sending said print data by the said signal conditioning package of the IP address indication of being changed; And

Receive and print the said print data that said signal conditioning package sends in response to described request.

13. the Method of printing in the signal conditioning package, this signal conditioning package can communicate via network and printing equipment, and said Method of printing comprises:

Present the identification information that is generated to the user; And

In response to request, will be sent to said printing equipment through using the print data of the spooking data generation of institute from said printing equipment.